Sophia Sullivan tapped her fingers lightly on the table.
"Your friend Julian Roscente is quite capable."
Her tone was calm.
"He even organized a charity gala."
Ethan Sullivan looked up at her.
"The Roscente family has deep roots. Connections aren't surprising."
Sophia smiled faintly.
"He doesn't seem like an advertising executive."
She paused.
"More like someone from politics."
In A-City, organizing charity galas required government ties.
She'd investigated Julian thoroughly.
On the surface, he was CEO of the world's largest ad agency.
But behind the scenes, he worked for others.
Memories of that night in Sicily flashed through her mind.
Julian directing the cleanup crew with cold efficiency.
Then there was his close friendship with Ethan.
Sophia's gaze flickered.
"Your friend is... intriguing."
She met Ethan's eyes directly.
Searching for any telltale reaction.
This was the first time she'd encountered a true equal.
From wheelchair-bound to short track speed skating partners.
They were like natural allies.
Or destined rivals.
Ethan's lips curved slightly.
"You're well-informed, Miss Sullivan."
"Just bits and pieces."
Sophia lifted her teacup.
The white porcelain accentuated her delicate fingers.
"I've helped you so much."
She tilted her head with a playful smile.
"Don't I deserve a reward?"
Ethan was prepared.
"At the auction, anything you desire."
His voice was deep.
"I'll cover it."
Sophia arched an eyebrow.
"Aren't you afraid I'll pick something extravagant?"
"The Sullivan family lacks many things."
Ethan flipped through the guest list.
"But money isn't one of them."
Sophia was right.
This charity event bore his fingerprints.
He'd never been in love before.
But he excelled at gradual seduction.
Wanting to gift her something for months.
Yet nothing ever seemed worthy.
Better to let her choose.
Unaware of his thoughts, Sophia changed topics.
"Mr. Roscente must be popular with women?"
Last time at the hospital entrance.
She'd noticed the tension between Julian and Isabella Robinson.
Her rebellious-looking best friend.
Actually had a tender heart.
Sophia couldn't resist asking.
Ethan chuckled knowingly.
"Are you asking for your friend?"
He set down the list.
"Julian appears easygoing."
His expression turned meaningful.
"But his guard is always up."
Meanwhile at SKP Mall.
Julian sneezed repeatedly.
"Who's talking about me?"
He rubbed his nose.
Glancing at Isabella beside him.
"Miss Robinson, return my jacket."
Isabella tightened her grip on his suit coat.
"Freeze to death for all I care."
She rolled her eyes.
"Can't you see I'm wearing a dress?"
Julian feigned pitifulness.
"I'm cold too."
Isabella pointed toward a fireplace display.
"Want to jump in for warmth?"
Julian was speechless.
Sophia was so gentle.
How did her best friend turn out like a bandit?